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Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has made a surprise return to Italian football 11 years after his retirement, joining third-tier side Ravenna FC as an investor and potential player. The 46-year-old, who last played professionally for Fluminense in 2015, was presented by the club in Ravenna on Thursday.
The former Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan star has not confirmed whether he will actually feature in competitive matches, leaving the decision to Ravenna’s president and coach. However, Ronaldinho said he would be delighted if he gets the opportunity to score what would be his 300th career goal, describing such an achievement as “even more beautiful.”
Ronaldinho, a member of Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning team and the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner, said he returned largely because of his friendship with Ravenna owner Ignazio Cipriani and his desire to help the club succeed. Cipriani hopes the Brazilian’s involvement will generate excitement around the team and support Ravenna’s ambitions of eventually reaching Italy’s top flight.
